Buying a Tesla in Hawaii is no different from elsewhere – new and pre-owned vehicles can be purchased on Tesla.com. On their site, you’re able to configure your custom Model S, Model X, Model 3, or Model Y. To purchase a new Tesla, visit the company’s website. You can use their configuration tool to play with options across all of their latest models. Click on the ‘Custom Order’ button for the desired model to begin your purchase journey.
Note that inventory cars can be a bargain. These include demo or test-drive vehicles with low miles. They also include new vehicles that have been built but not delivered. To view them, click on the “Existing Inventory” button on the website. It may also help to call the Honolulu store ( (808) 829-3743) as some available cars may not display.
Looking for a 2008-2012 ROADSTER?
Only about 2400 Roadsters were produced worldwide so they are relatively rare. Owners tend to hang on to them and many have them as daily drivers. Since these cars are out of warranty, insist on a Tesla Pre Purchase Inspection before finalizing your purchase. Of course, do your research before deciding to purchase. Great sources of information on the Roadster can be found at Tesla Motor Club Roadster Forum and Wikipedia – Tesla Roadster. The original Tesla Roadster can be found in a number of marketplaces, e.g., eBay.com, Autotrader.com, Craigslist, and Teslamotorclub.com.
BIEVA Tesla Buying Tips
- If you plan to charge your Tesla at home and you don’t already have a wall charging connector, we recommend purchasing one and getting it installed ahead of your vehicle delivery. This is the most convenient way to charge your Tesla.
- Tesla vehicles can be purchased with a mobile charging connector. This allows you to use an outlet (110 or 220v) and may be useful for traveling for an extended stay, e.g., a staycation on either side of our island.
- Standard performance models are very quick. Performance models command a price premium and have aggressive performance but will have a lower range.
- Private sales can be made on several marketplaces, e.g., eBay.com, Facebook, Autotrader.com, Craigslist, and Teslamotorclub.com. Caveat emptor: Please use caution when dealing with private sellers and online dealers – insist on an inspection (Tesla can conduct pre-purchase inspections for a small fee) and be wary of deposit requests. Also, if you see a price that’s too good to be true, it probably is cause for extra concern.
Big Island Deliveries
How do Big Islanders get their cars?
While ‘white-glove’ deliveries are a thing of the past, Tesla will work closely with the buyers to coordinate delivery. The latest process requires that you take receipt of the vehicle in Honolulu and coordinate with a shipping company to ship the vehicle to Hilo or Kawaihae harbors.
Here are tips to help you with delivery.
- Learn about the basic controls and operation of your new car, especially if this is your first Tesla. An excellent resource is the Tesla Co-Pilot Manual. This includes many excellent resources for new Tesla owners.
- Bring a checklist to the delivery. This will ensure that you cover all the necessary details before the vehicle hand-off. The Tesla Motors Club posted this checklist. While it applies to the Model 3, the guidance will allow to all vehicles.
- Schedule delivery so that you’ll have time to inspect the car properly. Ensure that you have good lighting to inspect every angle of the car. Pay attention to the paint, trim and panel alignment, the underside of the car, and general fit and finish. A mirror and flashlight will come in handy for the inspection.
- Take pictures and videos to document your inspection. This will help with any follow-up tuning that might be required. Tesla Hawaii has been very good to work with and will ensure that any issues are promptly addressed. Share any unexpected issues with the shipping company agent.
- Have a friend or family member join you when you take delivery and have a checklist of things you want to check and questions you’d like answered. This will help ensure that you don’t miss anything. Receiving a new Tesla can be overwhelming (in a positive way) so these tips can help you stay focused on the inspection.
- Reach out to a Tesla owner for questions to ask and things to look out for. Of course, you can reach out to us for this support.
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